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GPCRF gene family

Reviewed February 2009

What are the GPCRF genes?

Genes in the GPCRF family provide instructions for making proteins called frizzled-type class F GPCRs or frizzleds. These proteins are embedded in the outer membranes of many types of cells, where they are involved in transmitting chemical signals from outside the cell to the cell's nucleus. Specifically, frizzled proteins act as receptors in the Wnt signaling pathway, which is a series of steps that affect the way cells and tissues develop. Wnt signaling is important for cell division (proliferation), attachment of cells to one another (adhesion), cell movement (migration), and many other processes before and after birth.

On the cell surface, each frizzled receptor interacts with a Wnt protein or another similar protein, fitting together like a key in a lock. When a Wnt protein attaches (binds) to a frizzled receptor, it initiates a multi-step process that regulates the activity of certain genes. This signaling pathway plays a critical role in early development and in the maintenance of adult tissues.

Changes in the structure or activity (expression) of frizzled proteins have been associated with several human diseases. These include several forms of cancer, cardiac hypertrophy (a condition that weakens and enlarges the heart), and schizophrenia. Mutations in the FZD4 gene, which provides instructions for making the protein frizzled-4, cause an eye disorder called familial exudative vitreoretinopathy.

Which genes are included in the GPCRF gene family?

The HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) provides an index of gene families (http://www.genenames.org/cgi-bin/genefamilies/) and their member genes.

Genetics Home Reference summarizes the normal function and health implications of this member of the GPCRF gene family: FZD4.

What conditions are related to genes in the GPCRF gene family?

Genetics Home Reference includes these conditions related to genes in the GPCRF gene family:

familial exudative vitreoretinopathy

Where can I find additional information about
the GPCRF gene family?

You may find the following resources about the GPCRF gene family helpful.

The Wnt Homepage at Stanford University: Vertebrate Frizzleds and interactions with Wnts (http://www.stanford.edu/~rnusse/frizzleds/frizzlwnt.html)

Malbon CC. Frizzleds: new members of the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors. Front Biosci. 2004 May 1;9:1048-58. Review. (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14977528?dopt=Abstract)

The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for
professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about
a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified
healthcare professional.
See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? (http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/handbook/consult/findingprofessional) in the Handbook.